1988 Ford Tempo vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 251 kg more than 1988 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (250 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (176 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Tempo | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tempo | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2520 mm |
